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Press Release: Industrial Commission Nominating Council

For Immediate Release: Oct. 11, 2007

Travis Appointed as Chief Ombudsperson

COLUMBUS – The Industrial Commission Nominating Council (ICNC) today announced the appointment of Michael Travis as the chief ombudsperson for the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and the Ohio Industrial Commission (IC). The chief ombudsperson serves a six-year term and is an independent advocate for Ohio’s workers’ compensation system. The ICNC is an independent council of business, labor and public representatives appointed by Ohio’s governor.

“The vast experience Mike Travis will bring to the chief ombudsperson position made him the obvious choice of the council,” said Eric Burkland, chairman of the ICNC. “I’m confident that Mike’s outstanding legal and public service background, especially in the areas of workers’ compensation and dispute resolution, will ensure that Ohio workers and employers will be well-served by the Ombuds Office.”

Travis, a lawyer, has much workers’ compensation experience. He has served as BWC’s litigation manager; director of legal operations, reporting to the chief legal officer; and was director of legal and hearing services for the IC. In addition, Travis teaches college courses in business law, employment law, insurance and alternative dispute resolution.

“Mike has the experience, knowledge, and compassion necessary to effectively represent all customers of Ohio’s workers’ compensation system,” said BWC Administrator Marsha Ryan. “His expertise in working with injured workers, employers and the various workers’ compensation stakeholders, makes Mike an outstanding selection for the position of chief ombudsperson.”

The Ombuds Office is independent, reporting to neither BWC nor the IC. It answers complaints and general inquiries about the Ohio workers’ compensation system for customers who may not understand nor be satisfied with the actions taken by BWC or the IC. The Ombuds Office is housed within the BWC.

“Mike has a deep understanding of the workers’ comp system and an expertise in assisting both injured workers and employers,” said IC Chairman Gary DiCeglio. “His vast experience with the adjudication process will undoubtedly be beneficial in this new role.”

Travis earned his juris doctor degree from Thomas M. Cooley College of Law and his bachelor’s degree from Kent State University. He lives in Powell with his wife Nancy and two children. Mike begins his duties on Monday, Oct. 15. He succeeds the previous Ombudsperson, David Bush, who passed away in June.

ICNC media contact: Eric Burkland at (614) 224-5111

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